What did Handel’s father want him to be? This question delves into the early aspirations and influences that shaped the life of George Frideric Handel, one of the most celebrated composers in Western music history. Born in Germany in 1685, Handel’s father, Haydn, was a man of strong opinions and a fervent believer in the practicality of life. His expectations for his son were far from the artistic pursuits that would define Handel’s future. Let us explore the contrasting visions between father and son and how they ultimately shaped Handel’s extraordinary career.
Handel’s father, a man of modest means, wanted him to be a lawyer. He believed that a career in law would provide stability and financial security, traits that were highly valued in their time. However, young George showed a remarkable talent for music from a young age. Despite his father’s wishes, Handel was drawn to the world of music, often sneaking away to listen to concerts and practice on the family’s harpsichord. His father, noticing his son’s passion, attempted to discourage him by beating him with a stick whenever he caught him playing the instrument.
However, Handel’s determination was unwavering. He continued to pursue his musical aspirations, eventually leaving home at the age of 17 to study in Halle, where he was exposed to the works of renowned composers such as Dietrich Buxtehude. This experience only solidified his passion for music, and he continued to travel and compose, gaining fame throughout Europe. Despite his father’s disappointment, Handel’s talent could not be denied, and he went on to become one of the most influential composers of the Baroque era.
Handel’s father’s initial desire for his son to be a lawyer serves as a poignant reminder of the cultural and social pressures that governed the lives of young people during the 17th and 18th centuries. While it is understandable that Haydn wanted his son to have a secure future, his initial resistance to George’s musical pursuits also highlights the challenges faced by artists in a world that often undervalues the arts. Despite the odds, Handel’s perseverance and talent ultimately led him to become one of the most celebrated composers in history.
Handel’s father’s initial expectations for his son serve as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of following one’s passion. In the end, what did Handel’s father want him to be? A lawyer. However, George Frideric Handel’s own desires and the world’s demand for his musical genius overshadowed his father’s initial aspirations. Today, we remember Handel as a master of the Baroque era, whose compositions continue to captivate audiences around the world.
